Thursday, July 30, 2009

Georgia-based family group The English Family recently signed a recording agreement with Mansion Records.

The family was recently in Branson, Missouri recording tracks and vocals for the group’s first release with the label. The first release will be entitled Out of the Wilderness.

Out of the Wilderness features that familiar Southern Gospel sound that the English Family is known for with a unique blues and soul twist – much in part to the increasing talent of 15-year old Jacob English as a songwriter and vocalist. Jacob wrote three of the album’s seven original songs.

Phillip English of the English Family said, “This is just the right move at the right time for our family. We have been so impressed with Mansion Records. They’ve treated us very well, and we anticipate many great things with this partnership.”

“Not only is this family of five a very talented group of singers, but they write most of their own material,” mentioned Gregg Gray of Mansion Records. “Although some of it is mainstream Southern Gospel, there is a thread of southern rhythm and blues that makes their style very unique. We're expecting great things from the English Family.”

Out of the Wilderness is slated to release in late August – just in time for the National Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky this September.

Out of the Wilderness’ debut single will be released in the coming weeks. More information on that will be forthcoming. In the meantime – fans can call and request the English Family’s current fan favorite singles “Take It To Jesus” and “Fresh Manna” – both of which have become regular fixtures on the GospelMusicTimes.com Top 100 Fan Chart.

The English Family recently reached a booking agreement with Thomas Spradlen and Spradlen Promotions.

Few quartets stand the test of time to produce musical pleasure for decades; however, one quartet who has achieve this status is popular recording artist, The Anchormen. Over the past three decades this talented group, who calls Goldsboro, NC, home, has experienced the winds of personnel changes and growing pains, yet this quartet has consistently delivered a unique energy and exceptional vocal ability that continues to thrill audiences nationwide

In celebration of the group’s 30th Anniversary, a special reunion concert will take place on Friday, August 14 at the Goldsboro Worship Center in Goldsboro, NC. Veteran Anchormen manager Tim Bullins, who has been affiliated with the group for more than 25 years, states that the evening will be highlighted by the return of many former popular group members. “We are really excited about the event, as many of our former members will be a part of the evening. Some of Southern Gospel Music’s most talented men have been a part of The Anchormen over the years, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring some of those men back together for one special night.”

The event is one long-time Anchormen fans will not want to miss. Throughout the past 30 years, The Anchormen have been recognized as one of Southern Gospel Music’s most popular and talented quartets. The group has enjoyed numerous hit songs, including such popular releases as “I’ve Been Touched,” “It’s A Wonderful Day,” and “I Feel Like Running.” Over the past three decades the group has traveled nationwide and enjoyed numerous honors and accolades.

The Anchormen 30th Anniversary Reunion Concert at the Goldsboro Worship Center, located at 900 West New Hope Road, in Goldsboro, NC, will begin at 7:00 pm. The event will also feature special guest, Sherry Watkins. Complete information, including a listing of former group members scheduled to be a part of the evening, may be obtained online at www.theanchormen.com or by calling 919-734-1610.

Talented and innovative vocal trio, Mercy’s Well, is back in the studio working on a brand new recording. This will be the third installment in their tremendously successful Hymns Series. This time around they are recording an album full of classic Convention Style music while adding a fresh twist to the great sound of the Convention era.

Brad Strider, along with producer Donna Beauvais, was recently in the studio with two of the best piano players in the country laying the foundation for the new album, aptly titled Songbook: Where Hymns and Harmony Live. Gordon Mote and David Huntsinger played their hearts out on songs like “God Put A Rainbow In The Cloud,” “Life Will Be Sweeter Someday,” and “When They Ring The Bells Of Heaven,” just to name a few. There will be a total of 12 songs in all.

There are some special surprises coming on the recording, including incredible bass singing appearances by the legendary Gene McDonald and one of the lowest bass singers in Gospel music, Paul Harkey, of the Anchormen Quartet.

Strider, owner and tenor singer for Mercy’s Well, shared his excitement about this new recording; "Convention style music has always been a part of my family, dating back to my grandfather's quartet and their local radio show back in the 1940's and 50's. Even though I wasn't around back then, I have a deep love and appreciation for this particular ‘brand’ of Gospel music and the history it represents. Nothing compares to the tight vocal harmonies and slick piano accompaniment that came from of that amazing era."

Vocals for Songbook: Where Hymns and Harmony Live begin next week at the Hoppers studio in North Carolina called The Farm. The recording is slated for release during the National Quartet Convention in September in Louisville, KY.

Dynamic vocal trio, Beyond The Ashes, made their debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage recently. The group appeared as a part of a great line up of artists on "Sunday Mornin' Country."® Their performance was stellar and had the audience and the other participants buzzing about their incredible talent.

Appearing along with Beyond The Ashes was Brenda Lee, Point Of Grace, Jason Crabb, The Whites, Bill Anderson, The Fox Brothers, George Hamilton IV, and others.

Anthony Facello, group owner and tenor singer for Beyond The Ashes, shared, “Being on the Grand Ole Opry stage was such a dream. We were honored and thankful for the opportunity to share the stage with many amazing legends in country music who also shared a heart for GOD. God is opening so many new doors for our ministry. We are overwhelmed and so excited.”

Monday, July 27, 2009

Integrity Music announces the August 4th U.S. release of Faith+Hope+Love, the latest CD and DVD from Sydney, Australia’s Hillsong Live.

The Faith+Hope+Love recording features Hillsong worship team members Darlene Zschech, Joel Houston, Brooke Ligertwood and Dove Award winning writer Reuben Morgan. Together with Andrew Crawford, Houston and Morgan also co-produced the album.

The CD features 13 live tracks including new music such as the Top 10 iTunes single "You Hold Me Now” co-written by Morgan, winner of the 2009 Dove Award for Worship Song of the Year (“Mighty to Save”). Other stand-outs include “His Glory Appears” written by Darlene Zschech and Marty Sampson; “It’s Your Love” penned by Mia Fieldes and “The Wonder Of Your Love,” penned by the Hillsong’s Sampson and guest writers Jack Mooring and Leeland Mooring.

The Faith+Hope+Love companion DVD offers live video of each song plus documentary footage. In addition, Faith+Hope+Love worship resources, including CD trax, a songbook and a digital songbook, will be available October 9.

Hillsong Music is a ministry of the Sydney-based Hillsong Church, Australia’s largest evangelical congregation with sister churches in London, Paris, Kiev and South Africa. With churches across the globe singing their songs, and sales of over five million units in the U.S. alone, Hillsong Music is one of the world’s leading producers of praise and worship music and resources.

Popular singer, songwriter, author and radio host, Janet Paschal was recently named Soloist of the Year when the 2009 SGN Scoops’ Diamond Award winners were announced on July 16. The Award comes on the heels of Paschal’s first Number One song. Paschal’s popular radio hit, “Hide Me Sweet Rock Of Ages,” sits at the Number One position according to The Singing News Magazine’s Southern Gospel Top 80 Chart for the month of August.

Winners of the Diamond Awards were announced during a ceremony held at the inaugural Branson Music Convention last week in Branson, MO. Winners are selected by fans and industry members who cast votes online at www.diamondawardsonline.com.

Bryce and Misty (Freeman) Calloway are excited to announce the addition of their first child to their growing family.

Adelaide Rose Calloway was born on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at 1:25 p.m. She weighed 7 lbs 11 oz and was 20 inches long.

Misty said, “She has the cutest head of black curly hair – just like her Daddy! Bryce and I are so excited to welcome this baby girl into our family. She is such a precious part of the Calloway household. We appreciate your prayers for us during my pregnancy, and now, even more with a newborn in the house!”

BRANSON, Mo. – Industry leaders, artists, and fans are all glowing this week after the success of the Inaugural Branson Gospel Music Convention. The event took place last week in Branson, Missouri from July 14-17, 2009.

Artists from all over the country gathered last week for a week of fellowship, fun, and more importantly, to lift up the name of the Lord.

Highlights of the event included four daytime concerts that were free to the public and featured an array of artists from the legendary Chuck Wagon Gang and Blackwood Quartet to nationally-known Beyond the Ashes and The Parnells to up-and-coming artists such as Jake Holder, New Direction, Taj Rohr, and Red Roots.

Evening concerts featured the same variety of artists and included sets by Kenny Bishop, Young Harmony, 2nd Generation, Shannon Bunch, Crusaders Quartet, The Cerces, The Stamps, Florida Boys, Sunday Edition, CS&K, Homesteaders, McMillan & Life, Gospel River Boys, The Ladd Family, and many more.

Eric Hinson’s Hinson Revival (with Rod Burton and Jay Stone Singers’ Sharona Carter) brought the crowd to its feet, as did the Honduras-based Samaritan Revival, who sings traditional gospel songs in Spanish. Other notable performances were given by the full band Original Gospel Sounds and The English Family, who sang selections written by 15-year-old Jacob English.

The event began and ended with group numbers that involved all artists and even some of their families. Tuesday night kicked off with “Hallelujah Meetin’” and Friday night ended with “I’ll See You in the Rapture.”

HIS Choice Music sponsored a talent search on Wednesday morning, and during Friday night’s concert, announced the winners: 1st Place, CrossPoint Quartet, 2nd Place, Jericho, and 3rd Place, Darryl Marshall.

The Diamond Awards were also part of the evening events, taking place on Thursday and including appearances by Lou Hildreth, Dino, Chris Hester, and Kirk Talley.

Southern Gospel singer Rod Burton and his wife Kelly, who formed YMR Music Productions for the purpose of planning and hosting the event, feel it was a success. “We could not be happier with the turnout for our first year,” Rod said. “We had a good crowd, the events went mostly smooth, and most importantly, we have heard reports from audience members and artists that lives were changed and ministries revived. We kept hearing from artists about the spirit of ministry and fellowship during the convention, and we believe that was God’s encouragement to us to keep it going.”

Kelly added, “This convention was a tangible result of the coming together of people of like-minded faith. There was no competition there. I saw exhibitors, ticket holders, and members of the media spontaneously praying together. I saw a veteran guitar player in the food court playing music with a young lady just starting. I saw nationally established artists with nothing to gain running around backstage, ushering, even selling tickets. We’ve heard reports of a custodian at the Hilton giving his life back to Christ. We heard from artists who said they were burned out and feel they are now revived. All these responses are an answer to prayer!”

Plans are already underway for the 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention. The event will begin on Monday, June 28, 2010 and run through Friday, July 2, 2010. Registration is open to Southern gospel ministries and Christian organizations, and ticket sales are set to begin in September via the official website, www.bransongmc.com

Popular trio Brothers Forever recently completed a successful West Coast/Western United States tour. The tour kicked off in Harrisburg, Oregon, and the trio visited 19 cities all across the Western United States and West-Coast. Brothers Forever performed 20 concerts in five states – including stops in San Diego, Modesto, Tracy, Marysville, and Ripon, California.

Curtis Hagy of Brothers Forever said, “This has been the most successful summer tour yet for Brothers Forever, and we are excited to see God expanding our ministry into new states as well as the salvations that we have seen in our services.”Brothers Forever celebrated as 15 people gave their hearts to Christ during the tour.The group also debuted songs from their new independent release – By Request. This release is only available directly through Brothers Forever – whether through their website or at live events.

“We really enjoyed making this record,” mentioned Gary Ballew of Brothers Forever. “This newest CD features a couple of new songs with our new tenor Chris Higginbottom, as well as some of our personal favorite songs.”Brothers Forever encourages everyone to call their local radio station and request their newest single – “More Than That.” That song is the follow-up to the group’s Top 40 hits “I Am Him,” “I Feel a Blessing Coming On,” and “I Can’t Forget the Day.”

Florida-based family group Faithful Crossings is currently seeking bluegrass/acoustic musicians to fill new band positions with the group.

“We’ve always wanted and envisioned a live band with bluegrass flavor to be a part of this ministry,” mentioned Tammy Sumner of Faithful Crossings. “This is the right time in our ministry to pursue this. We’re excited to see where God is taking this ministry.”

Faithful Crossings is seeking musicians with bluegrass/acoustical experience such as rhythm guitar, mandolin, fiddle, harmonica, dobro, and banjo. Musicians need to live in Central Florida and be available to travel on weekends.

Currently, the positions are only part-time, but gas and hotel expenses are covered by the group.

Faithful Crossings travels throughout Florida as well as eastern United States. The group sings Southern Gospel music with a country/bluegrass edge. The group performs mostly original songs and have used custom made studio tracks up to this point.

Southern Gospel/Christian country singer/songwriter Bev McCann is excited to be hosting special women’s luncheons in the Nashville area throughout the year.

“I have been wanting to put together something for Ladies in Nashville and the surrounding areas who are involved in ministry, and I have finally stepped out in faith,” mentioned Bev McCann. “I have felt lead to do something for these special ladies for a long time now.”

Bev McCann will host Women’s Luncheons six times a year in the Greater Nashville area that are designed to be times of encouragement for women who are involved in all areas of ministry.

The first luncheon is scheduled for August 4, 2009 at 11:30 a.m. The event will take place at the Puffy Muffin in Brentwood, Tennessee. The cost is $5.00 a person plus the cost of each individual’s lunch.

“My hope is that ladies will find this to be a unique time to share our hearts and let our hair down. We are hoping to have moments of laughing, crying, and everything in between. Anyone woman in ministry is welcome to come!”

Those interested in being a part of Bev’s new women’s luncheons can contact her by emailing her at bev@bevmccann.com or call (615) 299-6659.

Popular Southern Gospel group Blackwood Gospel Quartet regretfully announces that group tenor and grandson of Cecil Blackwood, Daniel Childs, has decided to leave the road due to health reasons.

“Parting is never easy,” responded Mark Blackwood, “especially when it’s family. There was always the possibility of Daniel carrying on the Blackwood heritage into the next generation, and that possibility was just beginning to flourish.”

With the exit of Childs, the Blackwood Gospel Quartet is currently seeking the next great quartet tenor.

“Through the years, we’ve been able to attract accomplished singers like Paul Lancaster, Bryan Hutson, Josh Garner, Dan Keaton, Burman Porter, Jonathan Sawrie and others,” responded Mark Blackwood. “You can come up with whatever reason you want in order to explain that, but the truth is that when you sing with this group, you’ll be taken care of. You become a part of our team, and we have a blast doing what we love.”

Parties interested in auditioning for this popular quartet should send a demo, picture, and bio to the address below or email them to davidmannmusic@gmail.com:

Blackwood Gospel QuartetPO Box 22128 Knoxville, TN 37933

Southern Gospel mainstay Paul Lancaster (The Martins, Karen Peck & New River, Everday Driven) will be filling in with the group until an appropriate replacement can be found.

Blackwood Gospel Quartet is putting the finishing touches on their brand new release. More details on that will be announced at a later date.

Nashville, TN - Multi-talented RSI Music recording artist, Gordon Mote was honored recently by MusicRow, Nashville’s leading music industry publication. Mote received the Music City Award for Piano/Keyboard Player of the Year for 2009, an honor awarded to the artist who has performed on the most Top 10 selling albums for the year. Mote, a first-time recipient, was presented the Pianist Award when MusicRow’s Jon Freeman and Sarah Skates announced this year’s Musician Awards, the only honor given to Music City’s session musicians. The publication has been honoring session musicians since 1989, and this year’s MusicRow Awards marked the 21st presentation. The honor comes on the heels of Mote being name Piano/Keyboard Player of the Year by the Academy of Country Music earlier this year.

Mote is recognized as one of Nashville’s most talented studio musicians. His piano artistry can be heard on the recordings of some of the nation’s premier preformers, including Brad Paisley, Trisha Yearwood, Alan Jackson, Rascal Flatts and Alison Krauss, just to name a few; however, since releasing his debut Southern Gospel recording in 2004, the talented singer and musician has enjoyed much success among Christian music circles, including numerous Top 40 hits and numerous Fan Award nominations. Mote’s video release, “The Best of Gordon Mote,” made its debut at Number 7 on the Billboard Music Video Chart in 2008. Mote’s travels throughout 2009 have included stops in the US and Canada, performing in excess of 100 concerts. Later this summer the popular Alabama native will travel to Europe for several concert events, then return in October with the Gaither Vocal Band and several fellow Homecoming artists for a concert tour, which will include stops in 12 countries

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Winners Announced for 2009 SGN Scoops Diamond AwardsNASHVILLE, Tenn. – Brian Free & Assurance and the Booth Brothers were named the big winners at this year’s SGN Scoops Diamond Awards.Eighteen awards were handed out at the 2009 Diamond Awards which were moved this year to the Inaugural Branson Gospel Music Convention in Branson, Missouri.The award winners were announced at a special awards presentation last week, on Thursday, July 16, 2009. Brian Free & Assurance and the Booth Brothers were each awarded three Diamond Awards throughout the program. Karen Peck & New River won two awards.The evening included performances from some of Southern Gospel’s most popular artists like the Blackwood Quartet, Florida Boys, Stamps Quartet, 2nd Generation, Kirk Talley, Kenny Bishop, and Chris Hester, as well as many up and coming artists like Dale & Cheryl Golden, Kathy Atkins, Jericho, and others.Many notable Southern Gospel personalities were on hand to present and accept awards, including Lou Hildreth, SGMRadio.com’s Rob Patz, Branson GMC’s Rod & Kelly Burton, SSE Group, Inc.’s Chris Unthank, KWFC’s Jonathan Edwards, Ron Blackwood, Josh Garner, and many more.The event was hosted by Young Harmony’s Johnathan Bond. The 2009 Diamond Awards were sponsored by Peal Communications. Additional sponsors for the event included Coastal Media Group (SGMRadio.com and “The Southern Styles Show”) and SSE Group, Inc. (Southern Spin Entertainment, SouthernSpinRadio.com, and SSE Design Group).For more information on The SGN Scoops Diamond Awards – visit http://www.diamondawardsonline.com .2009 SGN SCOOPS DIAMOND AWARD WINNERS:J.D. SUMNER LIVING LEGEND AWARD: Eva Mae LeFevreGROUP OF THE YEAR: Brian Free & AssuranceTRIO OF THE YEAR: Booth BrothersDUET OF THE YEAR: AmazedSOLOIST OF THE YEAR: Janet PaschalSUNRISE AWARD: Faithful TouchSONG OF THE YEAR: “Whispered Prayers” – Karen Peck & New RiverALBUM OF THE YEAR: Ephesians One – Karen Peck & New RiverMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR: Michael Booth (Booth Brothers)FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR: Sheri Easter (Jeff & Sheri Easter)ANTHONY BURGER INSTRUMENTALIST OF THE YEAR: Ricky Free (Brian Free & Assurance)DOTTIE RAMBO SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR: Jim Brady (Booth Brothers)CHRISTIAN COMEDIAN OF THE YEAR: Mark BishopBLUEGRASS GOSPEL ARTIST OF THE YEAR: Primitive QuartetVIDEO/DVD OF THE YEAR: Susie’s Eyes – Hearts of FaithFAVORITE ARTIST WEBSITE: BrianFreeandAssurance.com (Brian Free & Assurance)FAVORITE INDUSTRY WEBSITE: SoGospelNews.comLOU HILDRETH AWARD: Gospel Music TelevisionPAUL HEIL AWARD: Tom EnnisAbout the Diamond AwardsThe Diamond Awards were transferred over to the SGN Scoops Digital several years ago after the original home for the awards, the Gospel Voice Magazine, folded. The Diamond Awards are a fan-based award that allows the fans to choose the nominees as well as the winners each year. The awards show is held during the Branson Gospel Music Convention every summer.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

The 2009 Diamond Awards were held Thursday, July 16, 2009 at the Branson Gospel Music Convention. Sponsored by Pearl Communications, Coastal Media Group and SSE Group Inc, the Diamond Awards is a presentation of Allen Smith and SGN Scoops.

The winners are:

Sunrise Award - Faithful TouchJ.D. Sumner Living Legend Award - Eva Mae LeFevreGroup of the Year - Brian Free & AssuranceTrio of the Year - Booth BrothersAnthony Burger Instrumentalist of the Year - Ricky FreeSong of the Year - "Whispered Prayers" - Karen Peck & New RiverAlbum of the Year - Ephesians One - Karen Peck & New RiverSoloist of the Year - Janet PaschalDuet of the Year - AmazedChristian Comedian of the Year - Mark BishopBluegrass Gospel Artist of the Year - Primitive QuartetFavorite Artist Website - BrianFreeandAssurance.comMale Vocalist of the Year - Michael BoothFemale Vocalist of the Year - Sheri EasterVideo/DVD of the Year - Susie's Eyes - Hearts of FaithFavorite Industry Website - SoGospelNews.comLou Hildreth Award - Gospel Music TelevisionPaul Heil Award - Tom Ennis

Thursday, July 16, 2009

CHURCH HILL, Tenn. – Popular trio Brothers Forever recently completed a successful West Coast/Western United States tour. The tour kicked off in Harrisburg, Oregon, and the trio visited 19 cities all across the Western United States and West-Coast. Brothers Forever performed 20 concerts in five states – including stops in San Diego, Modesto, Tracy, Marysville, and Ripon, California.Curtis Hagy of Brothers Forever said, “This has been the most successful summer tour yet for Brothers Forever, and we are excited to see God expanding our ministry into new states as well as the salvations that we have seen in our services.”Brothers Forever celebrated as 15 people gave their hearts to Christ during the tour.The group also debuted songs from their new independent release – By Request. This release is only available directly through Brothers Forever – whether through their website or at live events.“We really enjoyed making this record,” mentioned Gary Ballew of Brothers Forever. “This newest CD features a couple of new songs with our new tenor Chris Higginbottom, as well as some of our personal favorite songs.”Brothers Forever encourages everyone to call their local radio station and request their newest single – “More Than That.” That song is the follow-up to the group’s Top 40 hits “I Am Him,” “I Feel a Blessing Coming On,” and “I Can’t Forget the Day.”To visit the newly designed Brothers Forever website, visit http://www.brothersforever.net.About Brothers ForeverBrothers Forever is based out of Church Hill, Tennessee. Nestled in the foothills of upper East Tennessee, this group has quickly become known for their unique style of southern gospel music. Songs such as "I Feel a Blessing Coming On" and "I Can’t Forget the Day" have become nationwide favorites. Brothers Forever felt the call to the music ministry a little over a few years ago, and since the group’s inception, it has been an exciting journey.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

A friend and I were comparing friendships in life to pets. There is the cat friend who purrs only when they are getting what they want. There is the goldfish friend who may look at you and move their lips, but they aren’t hearing a thing you say. Then there is the canine friend who is your friend no matter what you do and will always come back to lick your hand.It made me wonder what kind of friend I am to others. Do I extend my friendship only for what others can offer to me? Am I a friend in name only that really doesn’t let others close to me or know who I really am? Or am I a friend who ‘sticketh closer than a brother’?After spending a week of vacation where I was fortunate to visit with friends I hadn’t seen in months, it struck me that I am rich with friends who know me and like me anyway! Friends who don’t care that it’s been weeks since we’ve shared a laugh, we just pick up where we left off as if it were yesterday. Friends who truly care what is happening in my life, and who I pray for and encourage and listen to because they are such a big part of mine.This life is so much easier to handle with friends who support and pray for you and my time with such friends last week reminded me how important that is. The apostle Paul often started or ended his letters with how much he cared for his friends. “I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers” is one phrase he used in Ephesians.I’m not sure what kind of friend pet the apostle Paul would have been, but those he called friends were honoured. Just as I am honoured to have the friends the Lord has blessed me with. Our God is a God of Love, and He calls to have relationship with Himself and others. I pray that we each strive to become a better friend, to God and His people.

The Branson Gospel Music Convention kicked things off yesterday morning with prayer. "The Spotlight Is On the Message" this week in Branson, Missouri where over 100 artists have gathered to lift up the name of the Lord and encourage friends, family, fans, and each other with the overwhelming message of the Gospel.Pictured: Artists, volunteers, and directors of the Branson Gospel Music Convention gathering for prayer yesterday, July 13, 2009 before registration began for the event.For more information, visit http://www.bransongmc.com/ .

Friday, July 10, 2009

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Allen Smith of SGN Scoops Digital, home of the Diamond Awards, is proud to announce the main sponsor for the 2009 Diamond Awards.Pearl Communications has signed on to be the main sponsor for the popular awards show. Pearl Communications exclusively represents the music of Dove Award submitted Southern Gospel soloist Chris Hester. Chris Hester has had numerous Singing News Top 80 charting songs and is also represented by Spin-N-Motion Promotions, Southern Gospel’s premier record promoter. Chris’ music is exclusively distributed by New Day Christian Distributors and is available on iTunes or by logging in to Chris’ website at http://www.chrishester.com .Chris Hester said, “Pearl Communications is excited to sponsor the 2009 Diamond Awards. We are looking forward to having a good time with the staff of the awards next week at the Branson Gospel Music Convention.”“When looking for a sponsor – I always look at integrity first and foremost – and the people at Pearl abundantly represent Christian integrity,” said Allen Smith of SGN Scoops Digital. “We are excited to have them on board for this year’s show.”Additional sponsors for the event include Coastal Media Group (SGMRadio.com and “The Southern Styles Show”) and SSE Group, Inc. (Southern Spin Entertainment, SouthernSpinRadio.com, and SSE Design Group).The final list of performers for the upcoming 2009 SGN Scoops Diamond Awards was announced earlier this month. Some of Southern Gospel’s most popular artists have been added to this year’s programs. Those artists include Kenny Bishop, Chris Hester, 2nd Generation, Kathy Atkins, the Stamps Quartet, Christian Ferguson, and Jericho. Those artists are added to the previously announced performers – including Ron Blackwood & the Blackwood Quartet, Rod Burton, Young Harmony, Dale & Cheryl Golden, Kirk Talley, Sunday Edition, and The Florida Boys.The 2009 SGN Scoops Diamond Awards have moved to a new location and date for this year. The awards presentation will take place at the inaugural Branson Gospel Music Convention. The show will take place on Thursday, July 16, 2009 in Branson, Missouri at the Branson Convention Center. The awards program will precede the Thursday evening concerts and will begin at 6:00 p.m.The host for this year’s Diamond Awards is Johnathan Bond (of Young Harmony).For more information on The SGN Scoops Diamond Awards – visit http://www.diamondawardsonline.com .About the Diamond AwardsThe Diamond Awards were transferred over to the SGN Scoops Digital several years ago after the original home for the awards, the Gospel Voice Magazine, folded. The Diamond Awards are a fan-based award that allows the fans to choose the nominees as well as the winners in each year. The awards show is based during the Branson Gospel Music Convention every July.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Popular, multi-award winning musical group, The Hoppers kicked off the summer with a four-day concert tour in New England, featuring two sold-out concerts and near-capacity crowds at the other two events. On May 28, the trip officially began with the first stop in Georgetown, DE, at the Crossroads Community Church. From Delaware, The Hoppers traveled to Maine, where they were joined by popular musical family, The Hyssongs, for stops in Vermont and Massachusetts.

The Hoppers were thrilled with the success of the four dates, and according to Hoppers’ spokesperson, Dean Hopper, the trip included many special highlights, incuding fresh lobster in Maine, courtesy of Augusta’s 88.9 Christian Radio. “We had such a great time,” Hopper stated. “We haven't visited the New England states in quite some time, and I had forgotten just how gorgeous the scenery is. We enjoyed singing to sold out crowds in almost all four venues, and we greatly appreciate all the intricate and monotonous work done by the promoters, pastors, church staff and church members, who helped make each event such a success.”

On Monday, June 1, The Hoppers departed New England for the European leg of their summer tour. The European trip included concerts in three countries. On June 3 the first stop took place at the Belfast Church of God in Belfast, Northern Ireland. From Ireland, the group made their way to Norway for six concerts in eight days, performing in Drammen, Skien, Vennesia, Stavanger, Bergen and Alesund. The tour concluded in Amsterdam, Holland on June 13.

The Finsland Gaither Music Club served as coordinator of the European tour, spending countless hours making travel arrangements and making certain every aspect of the Tour ran smoothly. “We were so blessed to have FGMC coordinating everything for us,” Hopper stated. “They graciously arranged travel plans, provided tours for us on our days off\ and treated us with first class hospitality. A very special thank you must be extended to Martin and ‘Dr. No’ (Kolbjorn) for their hospitality and humor throughout the tour. In fact, they arranged for translators for us in the countries where a translator was needed, and those translators were often hard pressed to bridge the language barrier.”

According to Hopper, several memorable moments on stage came as a result of the variations in interpretation. “Since being funny is arguably one of my dad’s greatest talents, it quickly became apparent that some of his stories lost anecdotal meaning in the punch line as they were being translated. Laughter quickly spread on stage when this happened, and in turn, became the engaging point for the laughter that spilled into the audience.”

The comedy aspect of The Hoppers’ ministry may have experienced language barriers; however, as the senior member of The Hoppers explained, language barriers were broken as the clear message of the music needed no translation. “The presence of the Spirit easily overcame language barriers, and the message was understood and received well by everyone,” Claude Hopper shared. “We felt blessed to be able to play to capacity crowds in each of the eight venues we visited. It was exciting to see how receiving the people were to our kind of music and the message of the music. We are eternally thankful for the opportunity to share our ministry with so many people who took it to heart.”

The Hoppers have spent 52 years bringing the sound of hope and healing through Christ into the lives of countless people and are thankful the musical message they have proclaimed for a half century is a universal language that knows no boundaries.

Throughout July and August, The Hoppers’ tour schedule will include stops in nearly a dozen states and Canada. The group will also travel to Alaska for the Gaither Alaskan Cruise with The Gaither Vocal Band and dozens of popular Gaither Homecoming artists. In addition to their extensive touring schedule, the group is finishing a brand new recording to be released this September entitled, Unforgettable.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Allen Smith of SGN Scoops Digital, home of the Diamond Awards, is proud to announce the final list of performers for the upcoming 2009 SGN Scoops Diamond Awards.

Some of Southern Gospel’s most popular artists have been added to this year’s programs. Those artists include Kenny Bishop, Chris Hester, 2nd Generation, Kathy Atkins, the Stamps Quartet, Christian Ferguson, and Jericho. Those artists are added to the previously announced performers – including Ron Blackwood & the Blackwood Quartet, Rod Burton, Young Harmony, Dale & Cheryl Golden, Kirk Talley, Sunday Edition, and The Florida Boys.

“We are more than happy with our artist line-up for this year’s program,” mentioned Allen Smith of SGN Scoops Digital. “We know that this year’s program will be one of our best!”

Voting has ended for this year’s Diamond Awards. The Diamond Awards home on the web is located at http://diamondawardsonline.com.

The 2009 SGN Scoops Diamond Awards have moved to a new location and date for this year. The awards presentation will take place at the inaugural Branson Gospel Music Convention. The show will take place on Thursday, July 16, 2009 in Branson, Missouri at the Branson Convention Center. The awards program will precede the Thursday evening concerts and will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Sunday Edition, one of Nashville’s favorite groups, was recently greeted with the news that their latest single – “He Bore a Cross” – has become on of the most added songs at Southern Gospel radio.

In just two weeks of release to Southern Gospel radio, “He Bore a Cross” landed on the Singing News Top 10 New Releases chart – standing alongside new songs from the Kingdom Heirs, Dove Brothers, Karen Peck & New River, Greater Vision, and others.

“We were already very excited about this song,” mentioned Deon Unthank of Sunday Edition. “The song has received a standing ovation everywhere that we have sang it – so we know that people are really grasping the message of the song. To see it receive such a strong reception from radio so early in its life is very exciting!”

“He Bore a Cross” is the first single from Sunday Edition to break the Top 10 New Releases chart.

Sunday Edition released this special edition single in conjunction with BSA World Records. “He Bore a Cross” was produced by Glen Bates and written by Bates and Glen Ashworth specifically for the up-and-coming trio.

“He Bore a Cross” hit radio programmer’s desks the first part of June and is being promoted to Southern Gospel radio by three of radio’s favorite radio promotion companies. In addition to continuing their work with Phillip Emery (DJ Man Promotions) and Theresa Dillard (TS Promotions), Sunday Edition recently reached a promotional agreement with Tony & Kim Hudgins’ Spin-N-Motion Promotions.

“He Bore a Cross” can be found on Spin-N-Motion June 2009 Compilation, cut #1 and DJ Man Hit Singles Volume 31, cut #5.

Fans are encouraged to visit Sunday Edition’s website (http://www.sundayedtion.net) and hear the new song. The song is also streaming on Sunday Edition’s MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/thesundayedition).

Sunday Edition is in the beginning stages of recording a brand new album. Tracks for the new album, tentatively titled Sunday Worship, were recorded by Bobby McAllister for Salem Sound in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Sunday Worship is being produced and arranged by group members Chris Unthank and Deon Unthank.

Vocals for the new recording will be recorded at Square One Studio in Franklin, Tennessee this month. Sunday Worship has a tentative release date of late summer.

Husband and wife duo The Dotsons are excited to announce the release of their brand new recording – Still Small Voice.

Still Small Voice features production work from Eddie Crook (tracks) and Adrian Payne (vocals). Players such as Crook and Payne as well as Robb Tripp, Marty Shrabel, Kelly Back, Milton Smith, and more all put their expertise on this new album.

Tracks and vocals were recorded at Family Room and Starpoint Studio, both located in Gallatin, Tennessee. Still Small Voice was recorded and mixed by Adrian Payne (George Jones, Allison Krauss, Charlie Daniels) for A2Z Productions in Nashville, Tennessee.

Seven of the project’s 12 tracks were written by John Dotson, including the title cut “Still Small Voice.” The duo also put their touch on classics like “Rise Again,” “Soul Fillin’ Station,” “God Delivers Again,” “He Broke the Chains,” and “Here Today, Gone Tomorrow.”

John Dotson said, “We pray that through His sweet Holy Spirit our listeners will be encouraged and blessed as they hear our songs, and those who don’t know Him as their personal savior will hear that ‘still small voice’ calling them into His kingdom.”

Still Small Voice is now available to purchase at live and concert events from The Dotsons as well as their website.

The first single from the new recording will be announced at a later date.

Saturday, July 4, 2009

OOppss!! Well, since we missed the "Friday Freebie" this week, we decided to post a Saturday Freebie instead.

Walgreens: FREE Goody Ouchless Flex Hair Accessory + Profit!

Buy a Goody Ouchless Flex hair accessory priced at $3.99 and receive a Catalina/Register Reward. It will print after paying. The Catalina will be a mail in rebate form to get the full price back from the Flex hair accessory!

NOTE: A Catalina is the name of the coupons that print at the register after you pay. The company that makes the machine is named "Catalina" and so we refer to the coupons called a Catalina.

If you buy the Goody Ouchless Flex Headband and use the $1 coupon that you can print here! Final cost FREE plus possibly a $1 profit!

Friday, July 3, 2009

Daywind Music Publishing recently celebrated two BMI airplay awards at the annual BMI Christian Music Awards held in Nashville, TN. The songs were “Last Night,” written by Marcia Henry (Christian Taylor Music/Marcia Henry Music) and recorded by Karen Peck and New River (Daywind Records), and “I've Been Changed” written by Earl Galloway and Jeff Steele (Christian Taylor Music/OSMR Songs/Sunset Gallery Music), and recorded by Legacy Five (Daywind Records).

The evening included great music, a wonderful dinner, and honoring the songwriters behind these powerful songs. Both Daywind Music Publishing songs were recognized for receiving a high amount of airplay on Christian stations across the country.

“Receiving the prestigious BMI award is a particularly special recognition because it is indicative of the impact these songs have made through radio airplay,” states Rick Shelton, Director of Daywind Music Publishing. “Thanks to BMI for recognizing the contribution of Southern Gospel Music and congratulations to Daywind staff writers, Jeff Steele and Marcia Henry, for penning songs that have connected so well with the radio audience.”

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Daywind Music Publishing songwriter, Marty Funderburk, was recently honored at a special gathering to celebrate a number of tremendous accomplishments in his journey as a great songwriter. These honors included the #1 song for June 2009, “Life Goes On” recorded by the Talley Trio and the commemoration of Daywind Music Publishing's first choir releases in partnership with LifeWay Worship, which were written by Marty Funderburk and Gina Boe, “Life Goes On” and “We Sing, Jesus Christ.” Most significantly, Funderburk was honored with the Daywind Music Publishing Impact Award.

The Daywind Music Publishing Impact Award is the company’s highest honor. The award is presented to individuals whose contribution was transformative and instrumental in the growth and development of Daywind Music Publishing. Funderburk was Daywind's first Director of Publishing. He has been with the company 12 years. He just recently completed his 500th song in the Daywind catalog. He has more than 50 songs published in choral format and distributed to churches nationally. He is a key writer as the company continues to develop its relationship with LifeWay Worship.

As is evident, this Dove nominated songwriter has a vast amount of achievements to his credit. In addition to his recent #1 song, he has written a number of Singing News charting songs. He celebrated another #1 previously with the song “Forever Changed.” His print music successes continue to grow. Additionally, he is a talented studio producer and is actively involved in producing for many independent artists who utilize Daywind Studios for their custom recordings. Still in all, his heart is evident in the desire to point those honors to Christ.

Funderburk recently renewed his publishing agreement with Daywind and expressed his belief in the company. He shared, “There are few people who get to do what they truly love for a living. I am among those blessed few. Daywind has allowed me to carve out a career in songwriting that I could never have imagined, and never have achieved, apart from their investment in my life and my dreams. Any success that I've had, or will ever have, I owe to the visionary leadership of this wonderful company.”

A professional songwriter combines a natural talent with craftsmanship to create songs that impact the listener. Marty Funderburk is the consummate professional writer,” shares Rick Shelton, Director of Daywind Music Publishing. “It is a joy and a privilege to serve such a gifted songwriter. There is a high level of excellence in every song he pens. We are thrilled to recognize Marty with well deserved honor for these achievements.” Daywind Music Publishing represents these exclusive songwriters: Gerald Crabb, Marty Funderburk, Marcia Henry, Ronny Hinson, Sheri LaFontaine, Kyla Rowland, Justin Rivers, John Darin Rowsey, Jeff Steele, Ben Storie, Dianne Wilkinson, Daryl Williams, and Gina Vera.

Boone, NC - Popular singer, songwriter, author and radio host, Janet Paschal has added yet one more credit to her long list of honors and accolades. When the August issue of The Singing News Magazine hits newsstands and homes of subscribers nationwide, for the very first time, Janet Pachal will have the NUMBER ONE song on the Southern Gospel Top 80 Chart. Shortly after Vine Records & Crossroads Entertainment released “Hide Me, Sweet Rock Of Ages” to Southern Gospel radio stations nationwide, the song made it’s debut on The Singing News Top 80 Chart at #39 in the March issue of the Magazine. Since that time the song has steadily made it’s climb to the top of the Chart, receiving airplay at radio stations nationwide.

“Hide Me, Sweet Rock Of Ages” marks the debut release from Paschal’s Treasure recording, which hit retail outlets in November, 2008. The recording’s release coincided with the release of Paschal’s latest literary work, Treasures of the Snow, which chronicles her battle with cancer and her triumphant story of victory. An advocate for cancer awareness, Paschal launched a brand new radio series, Walking The Good Road and community website, www.janetandfriends.com, earlier this year. The radio series airs of JOY FM’s network of stations, covering seven states.

Paschal is enjoying a busy summer promoting her book and CD. Her travels throughout the remainder of 2009 include tour dates in the US and Canada, as well as an extended European Tour with the Gaither Vocal Band, performing in 12 countries.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

I love coffee. Frapped, capped, iced, mixed with hot chocolate…bring it on. The difficulty is that I am sensitive to caffeine. A little makes me alert but if I drink it too late in the day I will alert all night long. Two cups of Tim Horton’s and I’m jittery, shaky and irritable. You can almost hear my brain buzzing.Here’s another strange fact: If my allergies are acting up, a cup of good hot coffee will make the congestion in my chest much more bearable. In fact, many moons ago doctors used to prescribe caffeine to help alleviate symptoms of asthma.Just like any other ‘addiction’, there are lots of good reasons for me to drink coffee and I have a hard time staying away from it. When we hear the word ‘addiction’ we tend to think of the biggies: alcohol, drugs, gambling. There are lots of other things that we can get addicted to or that tempt us to do harm to our bodies or our souls.So many of these things seem fine, even helpful, to us. They lure us in with what feels good, sounds good, or looks good. It’s exciting or thrilling; it makes us feel like we are stepping out of the box; we joke to ourselves that it’s our ‘dirty little secret’. We think that it’s not hurting anyone and is satisfying something in ourselves so that makes it right. How we need to be careful of those things that are fine for the body but kill our souls!I’ve been dwelling on the first bit of the book of James lately: “Consider it pure joy, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Another version replaces ‘trials’ with ‘temptations’.I am still wrapping my mind around how these tests and trials can be considered joy, even though I understand the theory of becoming mature or complete in my faith.What I did notice was a couple of things. First, it says ‘when’, not ‘if’. We all face these things, so if you think you are too holy or mature to face them, think again my friend! Second, don’t look down your nose at those that are fighting against something and having a hard time with it. You will have your turn. We all have ‘that thing’ in our life that will be a temptation and a trial. It may be different at different times or seasons in your life, but it will be there. You may say ‘no’ a dozen times, and then say ‘yes’…but don’t be discouraged and do not give up. It’s the getting back on your feet again and finding the strength to say ‘no’ again that develops perseverance.Find that person in your life that you can share even your deepest thoughts with and let them know you are struggling. It’s good to have that caring person with the warm shoulder say, ‘You aren’t alone. We all struggle. You aren’t stupid or weak. You are a child of God and He loves you and He forgives.’ Hopefully that same friend will also point you back to the Word and back to Jesus. Jesus knows you most and loves you best. He will be your greatest strength to face 'that thing' again and gain the victory.By the way...to all my Canadian friends: HAPPY CANADA DAY!!!